Method and apparatus for automatic folding of a space divider

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus provide for efficient and automatic folding of a space divider. The space divider is of one-piece construction, formed of a flat, generally rectangular sheet which is precut and scored. The divider includes two or more bottom panels disposed centrally of the blank and corresponding side panels, spaced longitudinally by connecting panels of two foldable sections and a centrally disposed partition panel. The method and apparatus for folding the blank provide for securely engaging each successive bottom panel and initially partially raising the side panels and the shoulders of each centrally disposed partition panel toward their respective erected positions and, in continuous sequence, simultaneously advancing all said bottom panels into adjacent positions, thereby completing the folding of the blank into its erected position. The apparatus further provides for retaining the erected divider in position while automatically releasing the bottom panels from clamped engagement, thereby to facilitate removal of the erected divider and to enable a successive folding operation.

United States Patent n 1 Garst METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATIC FOLDING OF A SPACE DIVIDER [75] inventor: Frederick Garst, Boones Mill, Va.

[73] Assignee: Occanneechi Orchards, Inc., Boones Mill, Va.

[22] Filed: May 14, 1974 [21] Appl. No.: 469,774

[52] US. Cl. 93/37 SP; 93/37 R; 93/59 CE; 93/84 R [51] Int. Cl B31!) H52 [58] Field of Search .1 93/37 SP, 37 EC, 37 R, 93/84 R, l H, 1 W2, 59 CE, 60; 53/48, 185, 255

[56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 3,058,634 10/1962 Wieneke 93/60 X 3,109,348 11/1963 Annen et al. 93/37 EC 3,200,718 8/1965 Fahrenbach ct a1 93/37 EC Primary Examiner-Roy Lake Assistant Examiner-James F. Coan Attorney, Agent, or FirmStaas & Halsey 1 June 17, 1975 [57] ABSTRACT A method and apparatus provide for efficient and automatic folding of a space divider. The space divider is of one-piece construction, formed of a flat, generally rectangular sheet which is precut and scored. The divider includes two or more bottom panels disposed centrally of the blank and corresponding side panels, spaced longitudinally by connecting panels of two foldable sections and a centrally disposed partition panel. The method and apparatus for folding the blank provide for securely engaging each successive bottom panel and initially partially raising the side panels and the shoulders of each centrally disposed partition panel toward their respective erected positions and, in continuous sequence, simultaneously advancing all said bottom panels into adjacent positions, thereby completing the folding of the blank into its erected position. The apparatus further provides for retaining the erected divider in position while automatically releasing the bottom panels from clamped engagement, thereby to facilitate removal of the erected divider and to enable a successive folding operation.

24 Claims, 14 Drawing Figures SHEET PATENTEDJUN 17 ms mQE PATENTEDJUN 17 I975 SHEET FIG. 14

HOLDER RETURN STOP 42 LOWERED STOP 42 RAISED COCOCO A B 2 3 A w TT TTM l u nwm TT ll L E E O XE W M w w w mm RUUR S w mm ER VALVE B VALVE A 1 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATIC FOLDING OF A SPACE DIVIDER BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to space dividers and, more particularly, to an automatic apparatus and method of folding a space divider.

2. State of the Prior Art The apparatus and method of the present invention provide for automatic folding of a space divider blank of the type shown in US. Pat. No. 3,738,56l of Nederveld, assigned to Packaging Corporation of America, issued June 12, 1973 on an application filed May 12, 1972. The teachings of that patent are incorporated herein by reference.

The space divider of the noted patent is of particularly advantageous construction, being formed of a simple, relatively inexpensive one-piece blank which may be formed on conventional high speed scoring, slotting and cutting equipment with a minimal amount of material waste. In its collapsed condition, the divider is a flat blank affording convenient storage. In its erected condition, the divider affords enhanced stability and rigidity to the container in which it is used, in addition to affording strong space divider walls within the container.

The divider blank, as shown in the figures of the cited patent, provides for six cells within the container. The erected six cell divider includes two bottom panels having joined thereto corresponding, parallel and longitudinally extending side panels, a laterally extending partition panel joined to the bottom and connecting panels joining the corresponding side panels, each connecting panel including folded-together sections sandwiching therebetwecn corresponding, integral shoulders of the central partition. The six cell divider can be erected manually, with relative ease and by a single workman.

The cited patent also teaches that the basic divider blank may be extended or enlarged to provide additional cells, in multiples of three, with some modification of the basic blank.

In practice. it has been found that erecting such an enlarged space divider is quite tedious and timeconsuming, requiring substantially as many additional workmen as there are additional multiples of the compartments. The increased time and expense of erecting such dividers has greatly reduced their potential value.

Accordingly, it is the object of this invention to afford an improved apparatus and method for efficiently folding the space divider blanks of the noted construe tion, and particularly an apparatus which effects such folding in a substantially automatic manner and is operable by a single workman.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the invention, an automatic folding apparatus for folding dividers of the described type includes a centrally disposed rail system carrying thereon a number of holders, spaced apart in the initial spacing of the bottom panels in the flat blank. A blank is positioned on the apparatus with each bottom panel engaged by a corresponding holder. The holders are interconnected for actuation from the spaced-apart to adjacent positions. for advancing the bottom panels from their initial spaced positions to adjacent positions in the crcctcd divider. The interconnecting means serves both to actuate and to maintain uniform spacing of the holders throughout the extent of travel thereof.

Folding arm systems extend parallel to the rail system and on opposite sides thereof, each such system comprising an elongated support member carrying a plurality of folding arms adapted to engage corresponding portions of the side and connecting panels of the blank in its flat configuration. In one embodiment, the support members are rods rotatably mounted at opposite ends to the frame of the apparatus and adapted for selective, automatic rotation to rotate and thereby raise the folding arms. As the folding arms raise, they engage and urge the corresponding side panels and the shoulders of the central partition panel upwardly by a small amount, toward their respective, erected positions, causing initial folding of the blank along the pre scored fold lines.

An automatic sequencing control system causes the holders to initiate their travel toward the noted adjacent positions simultaneously with the initial rotation of the folding arms. The control system also simultaneously raises a stop element to hold the blank in position. After a short travel of the holders, the folding arms automatically are lowered to their normally inoperative, retracted positions; the holders, however. continue through their travel. Due to the biasing of the various panels in the proper directions as effected by the folding arms, the continuing, advancing travel of the holders brings the divider into its fully erected position. When the holders reach the fully advanced position, means automatically cause the folding arms to rotate to their raised position to engage the erected divider and retain it in position as the holders return automatically to their respective initial positions. The stop is lowered automatically thereby to release the folded divider from the apparatus.

The apparatus preferably is powered pneumatically, under control of an electrical control system having suitably positioned sensing switches responsive to the various stages of travel of the holders to provide the automatic, controlled sequence of operations as aforedescribed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. I is a planar view of a blank of sheet material cut and pre-scored to form a multiple cell divider;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the blank of FIG. 1 in a partially completed state of folding;

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the divider when completely folded and erected, shown assembled within a shipping container, the latter being outlined in dash-dot lines;

FIG. 4 is a view of the apparatus in accordance with the invention for automatic folding of a divider blank as shown in FIG. I into the erected positions as illustrated in sequence in FIGS. 2 and 3 hereof;

FIG. 5 is a bottom planar view of the principal actuating elements of the apparatus of FIG. 4 with the supporting legs broken away for clarity of illustration;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 66 of FIG. 4 for illustrating in more detail one of the holders and the rail system;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view taken along the line 7-7 of FIG. 6 for illustrating the relationship of a holder and the rail system in greater detail:

FIG. 8 is an end elcvational view taken along the line 8-8 of FIG. 4 for illustrating an embodiment of an actuating mechanism for the folding arm systems of the apparatus of the invention;

FIGS. 9, l and 11 are simplified perspective views of the folding apparatus of the invention wherein a blank of the type of FIG. I is received thereon, and illustrate successive stages in the operation of the apparatus in automatically folding the blank into the erected position;

FIG. 12 is a schematic of the electrical sequencing control circuit for the folding apparatus of the invention, illustrating in association therewith a portion of the mechanical structure of the folding apparatus affording sensing switch actuation;

FIG. 13 is a schematic of the pneumatic power sys tem for actuating the folding apparatus of the invention; and

FIG. 14 is a timing chart illustrating the sequence of operations in a complete cycle of the automatic folding apparatus of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In FIG. 1, the divider is shown in its collapsed flat configuration; in FIG. 2, in a partially erected position; and in FIG. 3, in a completely folded position, inserted within a container 11 (shown in dot-dash lines). The divider 10 includes a generally rectangular blank 12 which is pre-cut and scored to provide fold lines in a manner now described.

The blank 12 includes any desired number of generally similar sections. shown illustratively herein as three sections designated A, B and C. With reference to section A, a bottom panel 14 is joined at longitudinal fold lines 140 and 14b to side panels 15 and 16 and together form a longitudinal dividing portion of the space divider. A similar set of panels 14', 15' and 16' are spaced from the panels 14-16 by corresponding connecting panels I7 and 18 along transverse fold lines 17a and 17b, and 18a and 18b.

The connecting panels 17 and 18 further include foreshortened fold lines 17c and 180 respectively, defining thereby foldable portions 190 and 19b as to connecting panel 17 and foldable portions 21a and 21b as to connecting panel 18. A central partition panel is joined at its base 200 along a transverse fold line to the bottom panel 14', the opposite longitudinal end 2011 thereof being free. The panel 20 further includes laterally extending shoulders 20c and 20d joined to the corresponding panels 19b and 2111 along diagonal shoulder lines 22a and 22b, respectively.

Each of the successive sections B and C include substantially the identical arrangement of panels as de scribed as to section A. Each successive section thus includes a lateral divider portion as formed by panels 17, I8 and 20 and a longitudinal divider portion formed by the base panel 14' and side wall panels 15' and 16'. The first section thus includes a further longitudinal divider formed by the panels 14, I5 and I6.

The partially erected view of the divider in FIG. 2 serves to illustrate the relationship of the various panels as the blank is folded into its erected position. It will be seen that as the central panel 20 is raised to a vertical position, the shoulders 2011 and 200 thereof become sandwiched between the corresponding foldable portions 19a and 1911, and 21a and 21b of the connecting panels 17 and 18., respectively. The panels [5 and I6 moreover are raised into parallel vertical positions relative to the base panel l4 which is shown in a generally horizontal position and, with reference to the view of FIG. 3, serve to define three longitudinally separated compartments. Similarly, the partition panel 20 and the folded connecting panels 17 and 18, the latter sandwiching the corresponding shoulders of the central partition panel therebetween, define a lateral portion of the space divider, as best appreciated from the view of FIG. 3.

As before noted, the cited US. Pat. No. 3,738,56l discloses in its figures a space divider having only one set of connecting panels joining a pair of corresponding bottom and side wall panels, providing only a six compartment divider. The cited patent describes the method of erecting the blank as including grasping the blank from the underside along its longitudinal margins in the vicinity of the foreshortened fold lines, shown at 17c and 186 herein, simultaneously pressing downwardly on those fold lines, and thereby causing the corresponding, adjacent foldable sections of the connecting panels to be folded inwardly. Simultaneously therewith, the side panels are folded to upright positions relative to the bottom panels. The central partition panel automatically assumes an upright position, the shoulders thereof becoming sandwiched between the folded sections of the connecting panels. The patent also describes the provision, if desired. of slots cut along various of the fold lines to facilitate the folding operation.

Whereas the foregoing method is practical for a divider of the described type having only a single central lateral dividing portion, where a multiple section blank affording an increased number of compartments is desired. as in the blank 12 of FIG. I, it is apparent that multiple and simultaneous folding operations must be performed. The disclosed method of the cited patent, however, would require a corresponding number of workmen, rendering the erection of the divider extremely costly.

The apparatus of the invention and its method of operation permits a single workman to quickly and efficiently fold space dividers of the type shown herein, having any desired number of sections, i.e., multiples of cells. For purposes of illustration, a twelve-cell divider is disclosed. although the apparatus could obviously be extended to accommodate blanks having a greater number of cells moreover, it will be understood that blanks of fewer cells than the maximum for which a given apparatus is designed may be folded thereon.

In the perspective view of FIG. 4, the apparatus is shown to include a rail system 24 having parallel rails 24a and 2411 joined at opposite ends to suitable support elements 25 and 26 of the frame of the apparatus. The frame is shown schematically to include legs 27 and a longitudinal frame element and guide 28, it being apparent that suitable additional supports may be provided, as required. A number of holder elements 30 of generally identical construction are provided, the structure being disclosed in more detail hereafter. One such holder 30 is required for each base panel 14 of a blank to be folded. A pair of folding arm systems 32 and 34 are provided and, as shown, include elongated shafts 33 and 3S suitably journalled in the support elements 25 and 26 at their respective opposite ends to permit rotation. A number of folding lingers 36a to 36g and corresponding folding fingers 37a to 37g are affixed to the respective shafts 33 and 35 at longitudi nally displaced, predetermined positions. The actuating mechanism for the folding arm systems is partially seen in FIG. 4 and is described more fully hereafter.

A stop 42, actuated by the piston of cylinder 43 for a purpose to be described, is also seen in FIG. 4.

An actuating mechanism for the holders 30 is also partially seen, and includes a hydraulic cylinder 51 having an actuating rod 52 connected to one of the holders 30 and a linkage mechanism 54 which interconnects the holders 30 and provides for simultaneous actuation thereof while maintaining the spacing of adjacent holders 30 uniform at all times.

Referring now to FIG. 5 which shows a bottom view of the aforedescribed apparatus of FIG. 4, the linkage mechanism 54 is seen more clearly to include a succession of scissor-type links pivotally connected at 55 through 58 to corresponding ones of the holders 30. The holder 30 adjacent the support element 26 is mounted fixedly to the rails 24a and 24b to be maintained stationary. The cylinder 51 of the actuating mechanism 50 is shown partially broken away, and the stop element 42 and its associated cylinder 43 are shown in cross section and phantom lines respectively to more clearly illustrate the remaining structures. The connecting rod 52 of the cylinder SI is journalled to the pivotal mount 57 of the first movable holder 30. It will be appreciated that by application of suitably directed pneumatic pressure to the cylinder 51, the rod 52 may be urged to its extended position as shown to effect a maximum separation of the holders 30 or alternatively may be withdrawn to cause the holders 30 to travel along the rail system 24 into closely adjacent positions. The linkage mechanism 54 serves to interconnect the successive holders 30 for simultaneous actuation while maintaining uniform spacing therebetween at all times.

The crosssectional view of FIG. 6, taken along the line 66 of FIG, 4, illustrates more clearly a single one of the holders 30. The rails 24a and 241), shown in cross section, illustratively may be of a U-shaped channel construction defining in each thereof suitable tracks for receiving the rollers 60 and 62 suitably rotatably mounted by axles 6] and 63, respectively, to corresponding side walls 64 and 65 of the holder 30. The pivotal mounting of the linkage system 54 to the bottom wall 66 of the holder 30 is also illustrated in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7, taken along the line 77 of FIG. 6, affords a side elevational view ofone of the holders 30. In FIG. 7, it will be seen that a pair of rollers 62 and 62' are journalled by suitable axles 63 and 63 to the side wall 65 of the holder to provide improved stability and, of course, a corresponding pair of rollers are employed for the other side of the holder, Only a broken away section of the rail 24a is shown in FIG. 7, thereby to illustrate more readily the relative positions of the folding arm systems and the rail system; particularly, a portion of the rotatable shaft 34 and two of the folding arms mounted thereon are shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 7 also clearly illustrates that each holder 30 carries a plate 31 spaced above the side walls by an amount approximately equal to the thickness ofa blank 12 to be folded; the plate 31 has an upturned end 31a to facilitate inserting a base panel I4 of the blank there under, as will be described. The plate 31 preferably is of a somewhat flexible but durable material, such as spring metal. The plate 31 is secured at its opposite end 3|!) to a cross bar 68 extending between and joining the spaced parallel side walls 64 and 65 of the holder. The

end 31b of the plate 31 preferably is turned down wardly.

FIG. 8 is an end elevational view taken along the line 8--8 of FIG. 4 and illustrates more fully the actuating mechanism 40 for the folding arm systems 32 and 34. A bracket 70 is suitably mounted to the end frame element 25 and has secured thereto a pneumatic cylinder 72 having a connecting rod 73 carrying at its free end a pivotal connecting element 74. Fixedly secured to the shafts 33 and 35 are crank arms 75 and 77 having slots 76 and 78 in the free ends thereof, respectively. A pivot pin 79 extends from the connecting element 74 through the slots 76 and 78 to pivotally interconnect the crank arms 75 and 77 and element 74.

Cylinder 72, as the other pneumatic actuating cylinders employed herein, is of a double acting, conventional type readily available commercially. Pneumatic pressure supplied to cylinder 72 in the appropriate di rection, as later described, serves to retract the connecting rod 73 to the position shown in solid lines, in which the cranks 75 and 77 are in their downward positions, disposing the folding arms in their lowered, inoperative positions as shown by the generally horizontal, the hidden view, dotted lines in FIG. 8. The opposite actuation of the cylinder 72 serves to project the con necting rod 73 to its extended position for rotating the crank arms 75 and 77 into generally horizontal positions indicated by dotted lines, and correspondingly to raise the fingers to their operative positions as shown by dotted lines in FIG. 8.

FIGS. 9, l0 and 1] show the folding apparatus of the invention in a schematic manner for illustrating successive stages in the folding of a divider blank I2 received thereon. In FIG. 9, the blank I2 is in its initial flat configuration and positioned on the apparatus such that the initial bottom panel 14 is received under the plate 31 of the fixed holder 30 and the successive bottom panels 14' are received under the plates SI of the corresponding holders 30, the upturned lips 31a of the plates 31 facilitating the initial placement of the blank 12. The support rail 28 will be seen to align the blank 12 laterally on the apparatus. Cylinder 43 (not shown) then is actuated to raise the stop 42 and thereby maintain the end of the blank 12 in the position indicated.

In FIG. 10, the folding arm systems have been actuated to their raised positions, partially raising the corre sponding side and connecting panels of the blank toward the erected positions. The alignment of the arms and the various panels is such that a first set of arms 36a, 1', e and g are disposed approximately centrally of corresponding side panels l6, l6 and the arms 36b, d andfare somewhat longer than the former, and extend inwardly somewhat further to engage, generally centrally of the area thereof, the shoulder portions 20d of the successive central partition panels 20. The arms 37a to g are correspondingly positioned. Substantially simultaneously with raising of the arms, the actuating mechanism (not shown) for the holders 30 is energized to begin the advance, or travel of the holders to the closed positions.

The initial biasing action of the folding arms serves to raise the central partitions 20 somewhat more rapidly than the pairs of opposed side panels 15 and 16, IS and 16' in view of the greater length of the arms engaging the shoulder portions thereof, and in conjunction with the initial tltlWl of the holders 30, results in initial folding of the panels \llong their fold lines and biasing of the various side and connecting panels in the proper directions, corresponding to their final positions in the erected structure. After a short travel of the holders, the folding arm systems are retracted automatically to an inoperative position and the holders continue their travel to their closed, adjacent posi tions, bringing the blank into a substantially completed folded, erected configuration as seen in FIG. 11.

As will be explained, the folding arm systems are automatically raised to the operative positions when the holders have completed their travel to the closed positions as seen in FIG. 11, to hold the divider in place. Stop 42 is also lowered at this time. The actuating mechanism for the holders then is reversed automatically to return the holders to their initial positions, each holder, with the exception of the first, thereby withdrawing from engagement with the corresponding bottom panels 14. The fixed holder 30 and the folding arms retain the erected divider in the position substantially as shown in FIG. 11 during the return travel of the holders.

When the holders complete the return travel, the holding arms again are retracted automatically to their inoperative positions. The workman then may remove the erected divider by sliding it to the right as shown in FIG. ll to release engagement of the panel 14 with the fixed holder 30. The apparatus then is ready to receive a further blank for folding.

The electrical control circuit providing the auto matie, sequenced operation of the apparatus is shown in FIG. l2. It includes a main power control switch SW1, which when actuated, closes the double sets of contacts and bi). Switch SW2 is suitably mounted on the apparatus, for example to the rail system 24, and comprises a microswitch having a contact arm 80 positioned to be engaged by a stud 82 carried by the last one of the interconnected holders 30 for momentarily closing switch SW2. Double pole switch SW3 likewise may be a microswitch including an actuating arm 84 adapted to be engaged by stud 86 carried by the holder 30 next adjacent the fixed holder 30. The switch actuation, to be explained, serves to energize selectively the solenoids A and B of each of the valve controls A and B. A main disable switch SW4 for emergency stopping of the folding operation is also provided. The solenoids may be of conventional type readily available for commercial purchase.

Flg. 13 illustrates the pneumatic system for power ac tuation of the apparatus and which contains valves A and B having respective ports A and B, each of valves A and B being controlled by the corresponding valve controls A and B of FIG. [3. An air supply, for example at 75 psi, passes through filter 90, pressure regulator 92 and an oiler or lubricating device 94 and then in parallel to valves A and B. Elements 96, 98, I00 and 102 are adjustable airflow control devices which may be employed, where desired. These again are commercially available items.

As seen in FIG. 13, valve B actuates cylinder 51 for the holder actuation mechanism. energization of solenoid A thereof directing positive air pressure through port A to retract the actuating arm 52 of cylinder SI and thereby advance the holders to their closed posi tions for folding the blank. Conversely, energization of solenoid B directs positive pressure through port B of valve B to extend the rod 52 outwardly and thereby return the holders to their initial positions.

Valve B simultaneously controls cylinder 43 through its port A to raise the stop element 42. At the end of the closing travel of the holders. valve B supplies pressure through port B as aforedeseribed to actuate cylinder 5] for returning the holders, and simultaneously actuates cylinder 43 to retract the stop 42.

In like manner, valve A is controlled by control A to supply pressure through port A to extend rod 73 and raise pivot element 74 to raise the folding fingers, and to supply pressure through port B to retract rod 73 and return the folding arms to their initial positions.

The timing chart of FIG. 14 facilitates explanation of the sequential automatic operation. Closing of switch SW1 at time r energizes solenoids A of both of valves A and B to direct positive air pressure through their ports A. Cylinder 51 initiates its retracting operation for advancing the holders and the rod of cylinder 43 is extended to raise the stop 42. Solenoid A of com trol A correspondingly directs pressure through port A of valve A to extend cylinder 72 and raise the folding arms to urge the side panels and the central partitions to their upright positions to initiate the folding operation.

After a brief extent of travel of the holder 30 carrying stud 82, at time 1,, switch SW2 is closed, energizing solenoid B of control A and directing pressure through port B thereof to cause cylinder 72 to retract rod 73 and lower the folding arms. At the end of the travel of holders 30 to their closed positions, shown at time I stud 86 of the holder 30 actuates contact 84 of SW3 resulting in energization of solenoid B of control B and of solenoid A of control A. Positive pressure then is supplied through port B of valve B to extend the rod of cylinder 5] and thereby return the holders to their ini tial positions. Stop cylinder 43 is also actuated to retract its rod and lower stop 42. Simultaneously. control A, the solenoid A of which is now energized, controls valve A to supply positive pressure through port A, thereby to extend piston 72 and raise the folding arms for maintaining the folded divider in its erected position while the holders proceed through their return travel. Close to the end of that return travel, at time stud 82 again engages Contact of switch SW2, thereby energizing solenoid B of control B and supplying positive pressure to port B of valve A. Cylinder 72 correspondingly retracts its rod, lowering the folding arms and thereby facilitating removal of the erected divider from the apparatus. At the end of the cycle, 1 the operator removes the divider and the apparatus is ready immediately to receive a further blank to be folded.

It will be appreciated that various modifications may be made in the apparatus of the invention. Whereas the scissor-like mechanism 54 for interconnecting the holders is highly efficient and effective in its function, alternative interconnection arrangements which serve to simultaneously convey actuating force to the holders while maintaining the uniform spacing thereof in both of the closing and return directions of travel could be substituted therefor. It as well is apparent that the linkage mechanism for actuating the folding arms could be of alternative constructions and moreover that various alternative support and actuating constructions for the folding arms themselves may be employed in the alternative. It also will be understood that the location of piston 51 is not critical and instead the piston could be mounted and connected to any holder; the illustrated construction however permits use of a piston having a minimum travel of the actuating rod. Similarly, the location of the studs 82 and 86 carried by the holders is not limited as to the specific holder; rather, what is re quired is the provision of means responsive to the initiation of operation to raise the folding arms for only a short time duration during the initial simultaneous travel of the holders toward their closed positions, whereupon the folding arms must be retracted to per mit completion of the folding operation. Likewise, switch actuation at completion of the closing travel may be afforded by any suitable means which provides for the automatic initiation of the holder return travel and related operations. Automatic return, while most practical and highly desirable, is not critical to the invention and independent operator control of the return operation could be employed instead.

It further is to be understood that the terms employed herein, such as longitudinal, transverse or lateral. vertical and horizontal, erected and flat, and the like connote relative relationships and are not limiting in any manner to absolute spatial relationships.

These and other modifications and adaptations of the apparatus and method and operation of the invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art and thus it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such modifications and adaptations which fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed:

1. An apparatus for folding a generally planar blank into an erected position to form a space divider including at least two bottom panels disposed centrally of and spaced longitudinally ofthe blank and respectively corresponding side panels joined to each bottom panel along longitudinal fold lines, connecting panels joining corresponding successive side panels and a centrally disposed partition panel connected at its base to a sec ond of said bottom panels and having a pair of laterally extending shoulders connected to a first foldable section of each corresponding connecting panel along diagonal fold lines, said blank being adapted to be folded into an erected position with successive bottom and associated side panels disposed in adjacent positions, separated by a corresponding central partition panel and associated connecting panels,, with the shoulders of each partition panel sandwiched between the foldable sections of the associated connecting panels, comprising first means for engaging respectively corresponding bottom panels or a blank received on said apparatus for folding, and being movable relatively to each other from initial, displaced positions corresponding to the displacement between the bottom panels of the blank prior to folding to adjacent positions corresponding to the adjacent positions of the bottom panels in the erected divider, first means for moving said engaging means relatively to each other simultaneously and while maintaining uniform spacing therebetwecn, from said initial to closed positions, second means for engaging a blank received on said apparatus for folding at predetermined, displaced positions along the opposite longitudinal portions thereof for initiating folding of the blank and biasing ofthe panels and partitions thereofin the directions of their respective. erected positions,

second means for moving said second engaging means from normally lowered, inoperative positions to raised positions for engaging the longitudinal portions of the blank, and

means for selectively and automatically actuating said first and second moving means simultaneously for moving said first engaging means from said initial positions to said closed positions thereof and for raising said second engaging means, and responsive to a predetermined extent of movement of said first engaging means to actuate said second moving means to lower the second engaging means while said first moving means continues the movement of said first engaging means to the closed positions thereof.

2. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein one of said first engaging means is maintained in a fixed position and wherein there is further provided stop means selectively movable from a lowered, inoperative position to a raised position for engaging the blank at the end thereof disposed at said fixed engaging means, to secure the said end of the blank in position on said apparatus during folding, and

said actuating means moves said stop means to said raised position substantially simultaneously with initial actuation of said first and second engaging means.

3. An apparatus as recited in claim I wherein said actuating means in response to movement of said first engaging means to said closed positions, automatically reverses the actuation of said first moving means to return said first engaging means to their respective, initial positions.

4. An apparatus as recited in claim 3 wherein said aetuating means is further responsive to movement of said first engaging means to said closed positions to actuate said second moving means for raising said second engaging means to engage and retain the erected divider in position while said first moving means returns said first engaging means to their initial positions, thereby to withdraw said first engaging means from engagement with the corresponding bottom panels.

5. An apparatus as recited in claim 4 wherein said actuating means, simultaneously with actuation of said first moving means to return said first engaging means to their initial positions, lowers said stop means thereby facilitating removal of an erected divider.

6. An apparatus as recited in claim 4 wherein said actuating means further is responsive to return of said first engaging means to a position close to said initial positions thereof for actuating said second moving means for lowering said second engaging means to the normally inoperative positions thereof.

7. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said first engaging means comprise holders corresponding in number to the maximum number of bottom panels of a blank to be folded and adapted to engage each bottom panel thereof, and

a longitudinally extending support element for supporting said holders in substantially coplanar positions while permitting said relative motion thereof.

8. An apparatus as recited in claim 7 wherein said first moving means comprises a linkage mechanism piv otally connected to each of said engaging means and interconnecting said engaging means for simultaneous movement with uniform spacing therebctween.

9. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said second engaging means comprise a folding arm system disposed on either side of the first engaging means, each including a common support element and plural arms directed inwardly, and

a first set of said arms of each system being disposed to engage respectively corresponding side panels and a second set thereof being disposed to engage corresponding shoulders of central partition panels.

10. An apparatus as recited in claim 9 wherein said arms disposed to engage a central portion of each shoulder are longer than the arms disposed to engage the side panels of the blank.

H. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said actuating means further includes:

first sensing means for sensing movement of said first engaging means through said predetermined extent of movement thereof, and second sensing means for sensing movement of said engaging means to said closed positions thereof.

12. An apparatus as recited in claim 11 wherein said actuating means further includes first and second valve means and first and second control means for said valve, plural double acting pneumatic cylinders each having a movable piston therein and means for connection to the piston thereof, and including first and second cylinders corresponding to said first and second moving means and controlled by said first and second valve means, respectively, master switch means, when actuated, energizing said first control means to actuate said first valve means and thereby supply pneumatic pressure to said first cylinder to effect the movement of said first engaging means to said closed positions, and simultaneously energizing said second control means to actuate said second valve means for simultaneous supply of actuating pressure to said second cylinder for raising said second engaging means, first switch means responsive to the initial predetermined movement of said first engaging means to energize said second control means in an opposite sense, thereby to actuate said second valve means to supply actuating pressure to said second cylinder for lowering said first engaging means, and

second switch means for sensing movement of said first engaging means to said closed positions for energizing said second control means in an opposite sense, thereby to actuate said first valve means to supply operating pressure to said first cylinder for returning said first engaging means to said initial positions thereof, said second switch means simul taneously energizing said second control means to supply actuating presssure to said second cylinder for raising said second engaging means, thereby to retain an erected divider in position during the return of said first engaging means to said initial positions thereof.

13. A method for folding a generally planar blank into an erected position to form a space divider includ ing at least two bottom panels disposed centrally of and spaced longitudinally ofthe blank and respectively corresponding side panels joined to each bottom panel along longitudinal fold lines, connecting panels joining corresponding successive side panels and a centrally disposed partition panel connected at its base to a second of said bottom panels and having a pair of laterally extending shoulders connected to a first foldable section of each corresponding connecting panel along diagonal folcl lines, said blank being adapted to be folded into an erected position with successive bottom and associated side panels disposed in adjacent positions, separated by a corresponding central partition panel and associated connecting panels, with the shoulders of each partition panel sandwiched between the foldable sections of the associated connecting panels, comprising the steps of engaging each bottom panel of a blank to be folded in accordance with the initial, displaced positions thereof prior to folding of the blank and simultaneously engaging the blank at predetermined displaced positions along the opposite longitudinal portions thereof,

simultaneously raising the engaged longitudinal portions of the blank relatively to the botton panels to initiate folding of the blank and biasing of the panels and partitions thereof in the directions of the respective, erected positions of the said panels and partitions, and simultaneously moving said bottom panels relatively to each other and while maintaining uniform spacing therebetween from said initial to closed positions thereof, and

releasing the engagement of said longitudinal portions of said blank after a short, predetermined movement of said bottom panels, and continuing the movement of said bottom panels to said adjacent positions for completing folding of the blank to its erected position as a space divider.

14. A method as recited in claim 13 wherein one end of the blank is maintained in fixed position during fold- 15. A method as recited in claim 13 further comprising simultaneously, as to each of said longitudinal portions ofa blank, engaging and raising the side panels simultaneously and at a first rate, and engaging and raising the shoulders of the central partition panels simultaneously and at a second, higher rate.

16. An apparatus for folding a generally planar blank into an erected position to form a space divider including at least two bottom panels disposed centrally of and spaced longitudinally of the blank and respectively corresponding side panels joined to each bottom panel along longitudinal fold lines, connecting panels joining corresponding successive side panels and a centrally disposed partition panel connected at its base to a second of said bottom panels and having a pair of laterally extending shoulders connected to a first foldable section of each corresponding connecting panel along diagonal fold lines, said blank being adapted to be folded into an erected position with successive bottom and associated side panels disposed in adjacent positions, separated by a corresponding central partition panel and associated connecting panels, with the shoulders of each partition panel sandwiched between the foldable sections of the associated connecting panels, comprising a longitudinal support,

plural holders for engaging respectively corresponding bottom panels of a blank received on said apparatus for folding. movable along said longitudinal support from initial, displaced positions corresponding to the displacement between the bottom panels of the blank prior to folding, to adjacent positions corresponding to the adjacent positions of the bottom panels in the erected divider.

a linkage interconnecting said holders for simultaneous movement relatively to each other simultaneously and while maintaining uniform spacing therebetween, from said initial to closed positions,

first and second folding systems extending longitudinally and on opposite sides of said longitudinal support, for engaging a blank received on said apparatus at predetermined displaced positions along corresponding, opposite longitudinal portions thereof for initiating folding of the blank and biasing of the panels and partitions thereof in the directions of their respective, erected positions, said first and second folding systems being interconnected for simultaneous movement thereof and from normally lowered, inoperative positions to raised positions for engaging the said longitudinal portions of the blank, and

a control system for selectively and automatically actuating said linkage and folding systems simulta neously for moving said holders from said initial positions to said closed positions thereof and for raising said first and second folding systems, and responsive to a predetermined extent of movement of said holders to lower said folding systems to second engaging means while said first moving means continues the movement of said first engaging means to the closed positions thereof.

17. An apparatus as recited in claim 16 wherein a first of said holders is maintained in a fixed position and wherein there is further provided stop means selectively movable from a lowered inoperative position to a raised position for engaging the blank at the end thereof engaged by said first holder to secure the blank in position on said apparatus during folding, and

said control system moves said stop means to said raised position simultaneously with initial actuation of said linkage for moving said holders of said folding systems.

18. An apparatus as recited in claim 16 wherein:

said longitudinal support defines a pair of longitudinally extending rails, and

each of said holders includes rollers received in corresponding ones of said rails to afford movement of said holders along said longitudinal support rails.

19. An apparatus as recited in claim 18 wherein said linkage comprises a scissors-type linkage pivotally connected to each of said holders and a first of said holders disposed at one end of said longitudinal support rails is connected in fixed position relatively to said support rails.

20. An apparatus as recited in claim 16 wherein said first and second folding systems each comprises:

a longitudinally extending rod mounted in fixed axial position relative to said longitudinal support and rotatable about the respective axes thereof, and

a plurality of arms extending radially of said rods and displaced along the respective axes thereof and in cluding a first set of arms for engaging corresponding side panels of a blank received on said apparatus and a second set of arms for engaging the shoulder portions of each of said central partition pan els.

21. An apparatus as recited in claim 16 wherein said control system comprises:

first and second valve means and first and second control means for said valve means,

plural double acting pneumatic cylinders each having a movable piston therein and means for connection to the piston thereof and including a first cylinder fixedly mounted on said apparatus with the connection means thereof connected to said linkage and a second cylinder fixedly mounted to said apparatus with said connection means thereof connected to said first and second folding systems for simultaneous movement thereof,

master switch means, when actuated, energizing said first control means to actuate said first valve means and thereby supplying pneumatic pressure to said first cylinder to actuate said linkage and thereby move said folders to said closed positions and simultaneously energizing said second control means to actuate said second valve means for simultaneous supply of actuating pressure to second cylinder for raising said first and second folding arm systems simultaneously.

22. An apparatus as recited in claim 21 wherein said control system further comprises:

first switch means responsive to an initial, predetermined extent of movement of one of said holders to energize said second control means in an opposite sense, thereby to actuate said second valve means to supply actuating pressure to said second cylinder for lowering said folding arm systems, and

second switch means for sensing the closed position of the predetermined one of said holders for energizing said second control means in an opposite sense, thereby to actuate said first valve means to supply oppositely directed operating pressure to said first cylinder for returning said holders to said initial, displaced position thereof, and said second switch means simultaneously energizing said second control means to supply actuating pressure to said second cylinder for raising said folding arm systems, the latter thereby retaining an erected divider in position on said longitudinal support during the return of said holders to said initial positions thereof.

23. An apparatus as recited in claim 22 further comprising:

a stop element disposed at one end of said longitudinal support and adapted for raising from a lowered, inoperative position to a raised position to engage an end of a blank received on said support,

a third cylinder having means connecting the piston thereof to said stop element, and wherein:

said first valve means is connected to said third cylinder to supply operating pressure thereto simultaneously with said first cylinder thereby to raise said stop element simultaneously with and during activation of said linkage by said first cylinder to move said holders to said closed positions and to lower said stop element to said inoperative position simultaneously with supply of actuating pressure to said first cylinder for returning said holders to said initial, spaced positions.

24. An apparatus as recited in claim 21 wherein:

said first switch means is responsive to said holder during the return thereof to said initial, displaced positions of the holders to energize said second control means in the said opposite sense, thereby to actuate said second valve means to supply actuating pressure to said second cylinder for lowering said folding arm systems.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Patent No. 3, 889,580 Dated June 17, 1975 Inventor(s) FREDERICK GARST It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Column 7, line 48, change "FIg." to --FIG.-.

Column 8, line 30, change "Sw" to -SW--. Column 9, line 61, change "closed" to said adjacent. Column 10, line 58, after "each" insert respectively corresponding. Column 12, line 25, change "closed" to said adjacent. Colunm 13, line 7, change "closed" to -said adjacent-.

Signed and Sealed this twenty-sixth D3) of August 1975 [SEAL] AIIESI.

RUTH C. MASON C. MARSHALL DANN Allesting Officer (ummlm'mu'r nfPalenrs and Trademarks 

1. An apparatus for folding a generally planar blank into an erected position to form a space divider including at least two bottom panels disposed centrally of and spaced longitudinally of the blank and respectively corresponding side panels joined to each bottom panel along longitudinal fold lines, connecting panels joining corresponding successive side panels and a centrally disposed partition panel connected at its base to a second of said bottom panels and having a pair of laterally extending shoulders connected to a first foldable section of each corresponding connecting panel along diagonaL fold lines, said blank being adapted to be folded into an erected position with successive bottom and associated side panels disposed in adjacent positions, separated by a corresponding central partition panel and associated connecting panels,, with the shoulders of each partition panel sandwiched between the foldable sections of the associated connecting panels, comprising first means for engaging respectively corresponding bottom panels or a blank received on said apparatus for folding, and being movable relatively to each other from initial, displaced positions corresponding to the displacement between the bottom panels of the blank prior to folding to adjacent positions corresponding to the adjacent positions of the bottom panels in the erected divider, first means for moving said engaging means relatively to each other simultaneously and while maintaining uniform spacing therebetween, from said initial to closed positions, second means for engaging a blank received on said apparatus for folding at predetermined, displaced positions along the opposite longitudinal portions thereof for initiating folding of the blank and biasing of the panels and partitions thereof in the directions of their respective, erected positions, second means for moving said second engaging means from normally lowered, inoperative positions to raised positions for engaging the longitudinal portions of the blank, and means for selectively and automatically actuating said first and second moving means simultaneously for moving said first engaging means from said initial positions to said closed positions thereof and for raising said second engaging means, and responsive to a predetermined extent of movement of said first engaging means to actuate said second moving means to lower the second engaging means while said first moving means continues the movement of said first engaging means to the closed positions thereof.
 2. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein one of said first engaging means is maintained in a fixed position and wherein there is further provided stop means selectively movable from a lowered, inoperative position to a raised position for engaging the blank at the end thereof disposed at said fixed engaging means, to secure the said end of the blank in position on said apparatus during folding, and said actuating means moves said stop means to said raised position substantially simultaneously with initial actuation of said first and second engaging means.
 3. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said actuating means in response to movement of said first engaging means to said closed positions, automatically reverses the actuation of said first moving means to return said first engaging means to their respective, initial positions.
 4. An apparatus as recited in claim 3 wherein said actuating means is further responsive to movement of said first engaging means to said closed positions to actuate said second moving means for raising said second engaging means to engage and retain the erected divider in position while said first moving means returns said first engaging means to their initial positions, thereby to withdraw said first engaging means from engagement with the corresponding bottom panels.
 5. An apparatus as recited in claim 4 wherein said actuating means, simultaneously with actuation of said first moving means to return said first engaging means to their initial positions, lowers said stop means thereby facilitating removal of an erected divider.
 6. An apparatus as recited in claim 4 wherein said actuating means further is responsive to return of said first engaging means to a position close to said initial positions thereof for actuating said second moving means for lowering said second engaging means to the normally inoperative positions thereof.
 7. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said first engaging means comprise holders corresponding in number to the maximum number of bottom panels of a blank to be foLded and adapted to engage each bottom panel thereof, and a longitudinally extending support element for supporting said holders in substantially coplanar positions while permitting said relative motion thereof.
 8. An apparatus as recited in claim 7 wherein said first moving means comprises a linkage mechanism pivotally connected to each of said engaging means and interconnecting said engaging means for simultaneous movement with uniform spacing therebetween.
 9. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said second engaging means comprise a folding arm system disposed on either side of the first engaging means, each including a common support element and plural arms directed inwardly, and a first set of said arms of each system being disposed to engage respectively corresponding side panels and a second set thereof being disposed to engage corresponding shoulders of central partition panels.
 10. An apparatus as recited in claim 9 wherein said arms disposed to engage a central portion of each shoulder are longer than the arms disposed to engage the side panels of the blank.
 11. An apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said actuating means further includes: first sensing means for sensing movement of said first engaging means through said predetermined extent of movement thereof, and second sensing means for sensing movement of said engaging means to said closed positions thereof.
 12. An apparatus as recited in claim 11 wherein said actuating means further includes first and second valve means and first and second control means for said valve, plural double acting pneumatic cylinders each having a movable piston therein and means for connection to the piston thereof, and including first and second cylinders corresponding to said first and second moving means and controlled by said first and second valve means, respectively, master switch means, when actuated, energizing said first control means to actuate said first valve means and thereby supply pneumatic pressure to said first cylinder to effect the movement of said first engaging means to said closed positions, and simultaneously energizing said second control means to actuate said second valve means for simultaneous supply of actuating pressure to said second cylinder for raising said second engaging means, first switch means responsive to the initial predetermined movement of said first engaging means to energize said second control means in an opposite sense, thereby to actuate said second valve means to supply actuating pressure to said second cylinder for lowering said first engaging means, and second switch means for sensing movement of said first engaging means to said closed positions for energizing said second control means in an opposite sense, thereby to actuate said first valve means to supply operating pressure to said first cylinder for returning said first engaging means to said initial positions thereof, said second switch means simultaneously energizing said second control means to supply actuating presssure to said second cylinder for raising said second engaging means, thereby to retain an erected divider in position during the return of said first engaging means to said initial positions thereof.
 13. A method for folding a generally planar blank into an erected position to form a space divider including at least two bottom panels disposed centrally of and spaced longitudinally of the blank and respectively corresponding side panels joined to each bottom panel along longitudinal fold lines, connecting panels joining corresponding successive side panels and a centrally disposed partition panel connected at its base to a second of said bottom panels and having a pair of laterally extending shoulders connected to a first foldable section of each corresponding connecting panel along diagonal fold lines, said blank being adapted to be folded into an erected position with successive bottom and associated side panels disposed in adjacent positions, separated By a corresponding central partition panel and associated connecting panels, with the shoulders of each partition panel sandwiched between the foldable sections of the associated connecting panels, comprising the steps of engaging each bottom panel of a blank to be folded in accordance with the initial, displaced positions thereof prior to folding of the blank and simultaneously engaging the blank at predetermined displaced positions along the opposite longitudinal portions thereof, simultaneously raising the engaged longitudinal portions of the blank relatively to the botton panels to initiate folding of the blank and biasing of the panels and partitions thereof in the directions of the respective, erected positions of the said panels and partitions, and simultaneously moving said bottom panels relatively to each other and while maintaining uniform spacing therebetween from said initial to closed positions thereof, and releasing the engagement of said longitudinal portions of said blank after a short, predetermined movement of said bottom panels, and continuing the movement of said bottom panels to said adjacent positions for completing folding of the blank to its erected position as a space divider.
 14. A method as recited in claim 13 wherein one end of the blank is maintained in fixed position during folding.
 15. A method as recited in claim 13 further comprising simultaneously, as to each of said longitudinal portions of a blank, engaging and raising the side panels simultaneously and at a first rate, and engaging and raising the shoulders of the central partition panels simultaneously and at a second, higher rate.
 16. An apparatus for folding a generally planar blank into an erected position to form a space divider including at least two bottom panels disposed centrally of and spaced longitudinally of the blank and respectively corresponding side panels joined to each bottom panel along longitudinal fold lines, connecting panels joining corresponding successive side panels and a centrally disposed partition panel connected at its base to a second of said bottom panels and having a pair of laterally extending shoulders connected to a first foldable section of each corresponding connecting panel along diagonal fold lines, said blank being adapted to be folded into an erected position with successive bottom and associated side panels disposed in adjacent positions, separated by a corresponding central partition panel and associated connecting panels, with the shoulders of each partition panel sandwiched between the foldable sections of the associated connecting panels, comprising a longitudinal support, plural holders for engaging respectively corresponding bottom panels of a blank received on said apparatus for folding, movable along said longitudinal support from initial, displaced positions corresponding to the displacement between the bottom panels of the blank prior to folding, to adjacent positions corresponding to the adjacent positions of the bottom panels in the erected divider. a linkage interconnecting said holders for simultaneous movement relatively to each other simultaneously and while maintaining uniform spacing therebetween, from said initial to closed positions, first and second folding systems extending longitudinally and on opposite sides of said longitudinal support, for engaging a blank received on said apparatus at predetermined displaced positions along corresponding, opposite longitudinal portions thereof for initiating folding of the blank and biasing of the panels and partitions thereof in the directions of their respective, erected positions, said first and second folding systems being interconnected for simultaneous movement thereof and from normally lowered, inoperative positions to raised positions for engaging the said longitudinal portions of the blank, and a control system for selectively and automatically actuating said linkage and folding systems simultaneously for moving said holders from said initial positions to said closed positions thereof and for raising said first and second folding systems, and responsive to a predetermined extent of movement of said holders to lower said folding systems to second engaging means while said first moving means continues the movement of said first engaging means to the closed positions thereof.
 17. An apparatus as recited in claim 16 wherein a first of said holders is maintained in a fixed position and wherein there is further provided stop means selectively movable from a lowered inoperative position to a raised position for engaging the blank at the end thereof engaged by said first holder to secure the blank in position on said apparatus during folding, and said control system moves said stop means to said raised position simultaneously with initial actuation of said linkage for moving said holders of said folding systems.
 18. An apparatus as recited in claim 16 wherein: said longitudinal support defines a pair of longitudinally extending rails, and each of said holders includes rollers received in corresponding ones of said rails to afford movement of said holders along said longitudinal support rails.
 19. An apparatus as recited in claim 18 wherein said linkage comprises a scissors-type linkage pivotally connected to each of said holders and a first of said holders disposed at one end of said longitudinal support rails is connected in fixed position relatively to said support rails.
 20. An apparatus as recited in claim 16 wherein said first and second folding systems each comprises: a longitudinally extending rod mounted in fixed axial position relative to said longitudinal support and rotatable about the respective axes thereof, and a plurality of arms extending radially of said rods and displaced along the respective axes thereof and including a first set of arms for engaging corresponding side panels of a blank received on said apparatus and a second set of arms for engaging the shoulder portions of each of said central partition panels.
 21. An apparatus as recited in claim 16 wherein said control system comprises: first and second valve means and first and second control means for said valve means, plural double acting pneumatic cylinders each having a movable piston therein and means for connection to the piston thereof and including a first cylinder fixedly mounted on said apparatus with the connection means thereof connected to said linkage and a second cylinder fixedly mounted to said apparatus with said connection means thereof connected to said first and second folding systems for simultaneous movement thereof, master switch means, when actuated, energizing said first control means to actuate said first valve means and thereby supplying pneumatic pressure to said first cylinder to actuate said linkage and thereby move said folders to said closed positions and simultaneously energizing said second control means to actuate said second valve means for simultaneous supply of actuating pressure to second cylinder for raising said first and second folding arm systems simultaneously.
 22. An apparatus as recited in claim 21 wherein said control system further comprises: first switch means responsive to an initial, predetermined extent of movement of one of said holders to energize said second control means in an opposite sense, thereby to actuate said second valve means to supply actuating pressure to said second cylinder for lowering said folding arm systems, and second switch means for sensing the closed position of the predetermined one of said holders for energizing said second control means in an opposite sense, thereby to actuate said first valve means to supply oppositely directed operating pressure to said first cylinder for returning said holders to said initial, displaced position thereof, and said second switch means simultaneously energizing said second control means to supply actuating pressure to said second cylinder for raisinG said folding arm systems, the latter thereby retaining an erected divider in position on said longitudinal support during the return of said holders to said initial positions thereof.
 23. An apparatus as recited in claim 22 further comprising: a stop element disposed at one end of said longitudinal support and adapted for raising from a lowered, inoperative position to a raised position to engage an end of a blank received on said support, a third cylinder having means connecting the piston thereof to said stop element, and wherein: said first valve means is connected to said third cylinder to supply operating pressure thereto simultaneously with said first cylinder thereby to raise said stop element simultaneously with and during activation of said linkage by said first cylinder to move said holders to said closed positions and to lower said stop element to said inoperative position simultaneously with supply of actuating pressure to said first cylinder for returning said holders to said initial, spaced positions.
 24. An apparatus as recited in claim 21 wherein: said first switch means is responsive to said holder during the return thereof to said initial, displaced positions of the holders to energize said second control means in the said opposite sense, thereby to actuate said second valve means to supply actuating pressure to said second cylinder for lowering said folding arm systems. 